Hodgkins’ asset beta:
We are given Degen’s leverage ratio (assets-to-equity) as equal to 2.3. If we assign the value of 1 to equity (A/E = 2.3/1), then debt (and the debt-to-equity ratio) must be 2.3 ? 1 = 1.3.
Equity beta for the project:
βPROJECT = 0.52[1 + (1 ? 0.3)(1.3)] = 0.9932
Project cost of equity = 3% + 0.9932(9% ? 3%) = 8.96%
Degen’s capital structure weight for debt is 1.3/2.3 = 56.5%, and its weight for equity is 1/2.3 = 43.5%.
The appropriate WACC for the project is therefore:
0.565(12%)(1 ? 0.3) + 0.435(8.96%) = 8.64%.